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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is the hardest piece of writing Styron attempted during his depression?
(a) Any upbeat writing.
(b) His goodbye letter.
(c) Poetry, due to its emotional nature.
(d) He stopped writing altogether.

2. How does Styron respond to the experimental approach?
(a) He was in mental anguish, wanting immediate relief.
(b) He demanded another drug.
(c) He didn't notice anything, but was hopeful so did better.
(d) He immediately got better.

3. At the dinner party, how does Styron react to the four friends?
(a) He is catatonic and does not speak.
(b) He brags through the whole dinner party about his accomplishments.
(c) He cries throughout the dinner because of his depression.
(d) He gets angry and speaks hatefully to them.

4. Though depression tends to recur, what advantage do sufferers of recurrence have?
(a) They know it is curable and know how to work through it.
(b) They are already on medicines.
(c) Their family knows what to do for them.
(d) They know the best doctors and hospitals to use.

5. What sort of people does Styron say is more prone to depression?
(a) People who have lost loved ones.
(b) Poor people.
(c) People with above average intelligence.
(d) Artistic people.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Styron mange to avoid the recommended shock treatment?

2. What is so frustrating about depression for artists, musicians, and scientists?

3. According to Styron, what is a frequent theme in his novels?

4. According to Styron, what is the touchstone of depression?

5. What is Styron's avoidance of death due to?

(see the answer keys)

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